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Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have
been exposed to asbestos dust. An increased risk of developing mesothelioma
was found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and
mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction
industries, and other trades-people.
At greatest risk are people, generally older men, who worked
in factories, steel mills, shipyards and other plants - especially those with
old buildings - where they may have been exposed to asbestos on a daily basis.
Also potentially at risk are people who worked with products made with asbestos,
such as brake linings, floor tiles or fireproof mitts or aprons.
The risk of
asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer
exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have
developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily
exposed develop asbestos related diseases.
There is some
evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an
increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related
diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home
on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing
family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to
shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
The U.S. Occupational Safety and
Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos
exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal
protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.
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